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Time for Triathlon in Hyderabad

More than 1800 participants expected.

Cycling, swimming and running enthusiasts world over, are busy preparing for the Hyderabad triathlon. The event is being organised by the Great Hyderabad Adventure Club (GHAC) on Octoger 23. The Gachibowli stadium, where the triathlon will take place, is expected to have a footfall of 3500 spectators and 1800+ participants across all categories. “We started this event in 2011 with just 30 participants. This year, we are expecting 1600 to 1800 registrations,” says Deepak Morpariya, mentor of triathlon. Swathi Vasireddy, the race director of the triathlon, says, “We have organised 3/4th Iron man and 1/2 Iron man categories this year, along with Olympic level, sprint level, novice level and mini level triathlons. We also have different levels of duathlon, and mini aquathlon.”
Participants gear up

Lt. Col. Gaurav Dutta, one of the participants, is excited about being a part of the Hyderabad triathlon. “I’m currently in Pune and will be in Hyderabad to be part of the triathlon,” he says. Talking about his fitness regime, Gaurav admits, “It is a continuous process — one has to work on their fitness regularly. When I can’t go out to practise, I make sure I work out indoors.” With his right leg having been amputated, Gaurav now walks on a blade, and will take part in the sprint level triathlon.

Another participant, Dr Vignan Rachabattuni, is a trainer and is equally excited about participating in the event. “This is my fourth year at the triathlon. I have participated in nearly 30 similar events till date and have won several medals,” he exclaims. Vignan will be taking part in the 1/2 iron man triathlon. Vignan advises that the general pubic should refrain from exerting themselves physically. “Do not push yourself. A lot of people try to learn from the internet, but I would recommend taking up proper training sessions,” he says.

A total of 28 Indian Navy officers will also be taking part in the event this year, of which, Lt Cdr. L Kaushik and Lt. Vivek Yadav will participate in the 3/4th iron man, the longest race in the event. There are, in all, six officers participating in the 1/2 iron man level triathlon. According to the organisers, nearly 40 children have also registered for the event.

( Source : Deccan Chronicle. )
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